Human bites, just like animal bites, can cause nasty infections if they’re not treated properly. In fact, human bites are often more dangerous than dog bites because of the wide range of bacteria found in the human mouth. Even a small bite that barely breaks the skin can quickly turn into a bigger problem if it’s not taken care of.
Signs of a Human Bite Infection
If a bite wound isn’t cleaned and cared for, bacteria can spread into the tissues below the skin, leading to an infection. Here’s what to look out for:
- Heat and Swelling: The area around the bite might get warm, red, and swollen.
- Pain and Tenderness: Even small bites can become more painful if they get infected.
- Pus or Discharge: If the wound starts to ooze fluid, that’s a clear sign of infection.
- Red Streaks: Red lines spreading away from the bite could mean the infection is spreading.
- Fever and Chills: A fever, chills, or just feeling generally unwell can be a sign that the infection is getting worse.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: The glands near the bite, like those in your neck or armpits, might swell as your body tries to fight the infection.
These symptoms can show up quickly, sometimes within just a day, so it’s important to keep an eye on any bites that break the skin.
What to Do if You Get Bitten
If you’ve been bitten by another person and the skin is broken, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional. Bites on the hands, feet, or face are particularly risky because these areas have a lot of nerves and blood vessels, which can make it easier for an infection to spread.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to do:
- Clean the Wound: Use warm, soapy water to rinse the bite thoroughly.
- Apply Antiseptic: Use an antiseptic solution to help kill any bacteria.
- Cover the Wound: Use a clean, sterile bandage to keep the area protected, but don’t wrap it too tightly.
- Get Medical Help: If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or shows signs of infection, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
For more serious bites that break the skin or cause deep tissue damage, you might need stitches, antibiotics, or even surgery. In some cases, a tetanus shot might also be necessary, especially if it’s been a while since your last one.
How Long Does It Take for a Human Bite to Heal?
The recovery time for a human bite really depends on the depth and location of the wound:
- Minor Bites: Usually heal in about a week to 10 days with proper care.
- Deeper Wounds: These can take several weeks, especially if there is nerve or tissue damage.
- Severe Cases: May need ongoing rehab to fully recover, especially if there was significant muscle or nerve damage.
Preventing Human Bites
Certain jobs, like healthcare, special education, and mental health care, come with a higher risk of being bitten. Professionals in these fields should consider wearing BitePRO® Bite Resistant Clothing to reduce the risk of injury. This kind of protective clothing can make a real difference, providing an extra layer of safety when working with individuals who might bite.
As mentioned earlier, human bites are more dangerous than dog bites because of the wide range of bacteria they can introduce into the body. Even a small bite can lead to a serious infection if not handled properly.
FAQs About Human Bite Infections
- How long does a human bite take to heal? – Most minor wounds heal in 7 to 10 days, but deeper wounds can take longer.
- Do human bites require antibiotics? – Yes, many human bite wounds require antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Why are human bites especially dangerous? – Human mouths carry a wide range of bacteria that can cause severe infections if they enter the bloodstream.
- What should you do if a human bite breaks the skin? – Clean the wound immediately, apply antiseptic, and seek medical attention.
We have been receiving outstanding feedback from our users and customers, and according to our research, we are the only company in the world fully dedicated to these sectors with a range that protects against these specific risks. Please contact us if you have any questions, and feel free to down load our highly informative international survey report on injuries associated to challenging behaviour.
Please read my blog, titled: "What Are Challenging Behaviour Injuries?"
About the Author
Robert Kaiser is the Founder and CEO of BitePRO®, the world's first specialised brand of protective clothing, offering dependable scratch and bite protection for healthcare workers, education professionals, and others working with individuals displaying challenging behaviour.
He is an expert in workplace violence and violence prevention, and a global authority in fighting violence agsinat women and personal safety for women. His written work has been published in several international industry leading publications.
